[Sherylcatmom]

Originally Posted by arel

Even though writing and editing have thier own specialties, e.g. technical writing, business writing, copywriting, etc., the ability to communicate clearly in print, and to edit others' written communications, are things that all organizations value.

This has been true for me. Since getting my B.A. in English, I have always earned some or all of my living producing writing and other forms of communication. Still do.

I was a technical writer for a time in the mid-1980s. Some seem to enjoy that work and it generally pays well for a writing gig. However, I was bored to death and probably wouldn't consider doing that again.

Still, not all technical writing means creating user documentation for deadly-dull insurance-claim-processing software, which is what I wrote about. I very much enjoy writing clear, specific instructions for using human systems and processes, and that is also a form of technical writing.

[tkln]

I have to say that for years, I have felt that certain college degrees are a total waste of time. I spent $80K on a diploma that got me not much more than a few good friends and contacts...I think real-world experience is much more important (except if you're a doctor/lawyer/etc) and having the right contacts/who you know/etc will get you further in life than anything else. I take continuing education classes in my field, which are much cheaper than a full diploma, and I read a ton of books to keep me current.

[exiledfromfromvermont]

I tried from away to find a job, sending resumes and such, replying to ads but like you, no bites. Then I was laid off and decided if I wanted to be closer to family again, better take a chance, and moved back here. I put a local address on my resume and continued to send it. Check jobsinvt.com. I did come up to look a few times while I was deciding whether to move or to stay in Dallas but found I had to make the jump and return.

I found the best way to find a job here was to figure out who had the type of job I was interested in. That limited it down to 7-8 different companies for me. I then researched online, or called companies and found out the names of the people who did hiring for the job I was interested in. I cold called the person, gave a quick 30 second intro of who I was and what I wanted and asked for help and direction. Amazingly enough, it worked, eventually. Vermonters were very helpful even though at the time they may not of had an opening. I always asked them to refer me to someone else and followed up with an email thank you. One person gave me a contact at another company and when I called them they were very helpful. At the time they did not have a job but let me come in for an informational interview which was put off for a while. And then....long story short someone left and this created an opening which I filled. Of course there was a 15-20% pay cut which they made up somewhat for with a relocation package. It might be harder for you to come for interviews but I would call around and get a feel for the job market, make a list of companies. Amazingly enough you can do quite a bit over the internet, like you've already found out. Ohhh, and I know there is at least one 30s single guy in VT.